Herbal Medicine Apprenticeship Program

An Exploration of Wild Foods and

Plant Medicines of the San Juan Islands

and Pacific Northwest

Photo by Colleen Stewart

 

Immerse yourself in the cycle of the seasons and connect with the magic and beauty of our landscape in this in-depth study of edible and medicinal plants, seaweeds, and Western Herbalism. Much more than books and notes, this apprenticeship is a life-changing experience: 

  • an opportunity to explore the world of plants through sensory awareness

  • to make medicine and share wisdom in community

  • to feel supported and nourished by a group of like-minded individuals

  • to change the world through the healing power of plants

This course is part of 3-year cycle through which participants will gain a well-rounded knowledge in:

  • How to identify, harvest, and process native and naturalized plants for food and medicine

  • Sustainable wildcrafting

  • The role of medicinal plants in our ecosystem

  • Invasive plant medicine

  • Wild plants as nutritional support and medicine for mind, body, and spirit

  • Seaweeds: harvesting, food, and medicine

  • Tradition, culture, and lore surrounding plants that grow in our region

Kristy walks between the scientific and spiritual worlds of herbalism. Through direct experience with plants, making medicine, and research, she guides an intimate, holistic and wondrous journey with herbs.

Colleen Stewart, 2017 Participant

Program includes:

  • 9 full-day sessions from April–November

  • including 1-2 day field trip adventures in our area

  • sessions with Kristy Bredin and other experts in the plant world

  • 2-3 student projects and presentations

  • share of the medicines we make together in class

Open to novices and those with experience alike. Limited spaces available. 

Most classes are held on Orcas Island and San Juan Island, WA. Some classes will be field trips to other locations.

2022 Apprenticeship Program is already in session. Applications for 2023 aredue by March 15, 2023. Classes will begin April 2023.

Intro to Western Herbalism and Herbal Alchemy: The Art and Science of Medicine Making is a pre-requisite for the Apprenticeship Program. If you miss the live Zoom class offering, it will be available by recording.

Tuition is $1800 for the year ($1600 if paid in full before the start of classes). Additional expenses not covered by tuition: transportation for field trips, suggested reference books, and personal tincture bottles. 

Payment plans, work-trade, hosting, and other discounts available.

For more information, questions, or to apply, please contact Kristy.

Kristy's intimacy with the native plants of the region and her knowledge of their medicinal uses is inspiring. She is a generous and knowledgeable teacher, and has created an in-depth experiential apprenticeship that is fun, enlivening, and educational.

Norris Carlson, 2017 & 2022 Participant

Apply Today